Power-pitching rookie reliever could stick after Wood returns

KANSAS CITY — Rookie Chris Carpenter and Jeff Samardzija have shared the right-handed setup role in Kerry Wood's absence and manager Mike Quade said Carpenter could stick around even after Wood returns.

"It's not out of the question," Quade said. "We'll have to take a close look at it. The main reason I say (he can stick) is he has done enough to warrant consideration. He, like some of the other kids, need to be involved. … I would never rule that out."

Carpenter, who was called up from Double-A Tennessee on June 14, is starting to feel more comfortable with each outing. The fact that Quade inserted him into a setup role speaks volumes about the Cubs plans for him down the road.

"It feels good to know they have the confidence in me to put me in those situations," Carpenter said.

Carpenter, 25, was clocked at 100 mph Wednesday night against the White Sox, a speed reached only by Andrew Cashner among recent Cubs pitchers.

"It's something I don't really think about," he said. "Just go out and throw the ball. But it's pretty exciting."

Carpenter's slider is also an effective pitch, when he's locating, and Quade is not afraid of using him in game situations despite his inexperience.

"We're not asking for too much, he has a little leeway," Quade said. "Especially for a young kid. If you can bring him in where the bases aren't juiced, he has some room to work. … God, when you see a power arm like that and think about the possibilities, it's exciting. And for all the power we talk about, if his breaking ball continues to improve … he was throwing a 95 mph slider (Friday) night. Geez, who wants a part of that? But you still have to locate it.

"So he's encouraging, and you combine him with (Samardzija), you get (Wood) back and (Sean Marshall), and (the bullpen is) already impressive, and I think it's starting to get better."